Chandigarh, January 10 – In a significant milestone in the fight against narcotics, Haryana registered a record 3,738 FIRs under the NDPS Act and arrested 6,801 accused persons during 2025, marking the state’s strongest enforcement action against drug trafficking to date. Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Dr. Sumita Misra shared these achievements here today.

From 2020 to 2025, she said that the state registered 20,519 FIRs under the NDPS Act and arrested an impressive 35,207 accused persons during the last six years. This sustained crackdown has sent a strong deterrent message to drug traffickers across the region, with enforcement numbers showing a steady upward trajectory year after year.

The arrests spanned multiple states with the largest numbers coming from Uttar Pradesh with 169 arrests, followed by Punjab with 147, Rajasthan with 64, and Delhi with 45 accused. Other states including Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and several north eastern states also saw their residents arrested in Haryana for drug-related offenses.

Among foreign nationals, authorities apprehended 26 Nigerians, 6 Nepalis, and 1 Senegal (Africa) individual, demonstrating the state’s capability to tackle sophisticated international drug cartels operating within its borders.

The state has achieved particular success in combating commercial drug operations, which represent large-scale trafficking networks. In 2025 alone, authorities registered 457 commercial NDPS cases and arrested 1,227 accused, the highest annual figures in the six-year period. Overall, commercial cases resulted in 2,224 FIRs and 5,824 arrests during the period under report.

Haryana’s anti-narcotics teams have successfully penetrated inter-state and international drug networks with remarkable efficiency. In 2025, a total of 586 accused were arrested, including 553 from other states and 33 foreign nationals, representing a significant increase from 444 arrests in 2024. This showcases the growing reach and effectiveness of Haryana’s enforcement agencies.

Over the six-year period, Haryana has seized narcotics worth hundreds of crores, striking a major blow to drug trafficking networks. The seizures include a staggering 55,701 kilograms of ganja, disrupting cannabis supply chains across northern India. Poppy straw emerged as the largest category with 89,696 kilograms seized, followed by 1,300 kilograms of charas and 229 kilograms of heroin. Notably, in 2025 alone, authorities confiscated 55.84 kilograms of heroin, one of the highest annual seizures for this dangerous narcotic, Dr. Misra added.

Other significant recoveries included 1,819 kilograms of opium, 3,392 kilograms of opium plants, and 814 grams of cocaine over the six-year period. The authorities also seized emerging synthetic drugs including over one kilogram of MD, MDA, and MDMA, along with smaller quantities of methamphetamine, LSD, and brown sugar.

Dr. Misra further informed that in year 2025, enforcement agencies confiscated 18,039 kilograms of poppy straw and 6,257 kilograms of ganja, along with 645 grams of MDMA and 240 grams of cocaine. A particularly concerning category has been pharmaceutical drugs, where authorities seized over 58.44 lakh units including capsules, injections, tablets, and bottles that were being diverted for abuse. In 2025 alone, more than 6.59 lakh pharmaceutical drug units were recovered from illegal channels.

“We are ensuring that crime doesn’t pay,” emphasized Dr. Misra, highlighting the state’s focus on economic disruption of drug networks. From 2007 to 2025, Haryana has seized, frozen, and forfeited properties worth Rs. 67.01 crore belonging to 370 drug traffickers under the NDPS Act. This aggressive asset seizure strategy has proven to be a powerful deterrent, as it directly impacts the financial motivation behind drug trafficking.

In 2025 alone, properties worth Rs. 13.59 crore belonging to 143 affected persons were attached, while in 2023 and 2024, properties worth Rs. 13.27 crore and Rs. 7.55 crore were seized from 61 and 54 individuals respectively. This sustained focus on financial investigation and asset forfeiture ensures that convicted drug dealers cannot enjoy the proceeds of their illegal activities.

To ensure speedy trials and justice, Haryana has established eight operational NDPS Fast Track and Special Courts across the state. These dedicated courts function in the districts of Sirsa, Fatehabad, Ambala, Hisar, Kaithal, Karnal, Kurukshetra, and Panipat, exclusively handling NDPS cases to expedite the judicial process.

The first two courts were established in Sirsa and Fatehabad in April 2022, followed by six more courts in February 2023. The state government has demonstrated continued commitment to strengthening the judicial infrastructure, with proposals already submitted for additional dedicated NDPS courts at Yamunanagar, Faridabad, Gurugram, and Rohtak. These proposed courts will further enhance the capacity for swift justice and reduce case backlogs in high-incidence areas.

Under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1988, Haryana has detained 147 hardcore drug offenders from 2022 to 2025, effectively neutralizing habitual offenders who posed a continuing threat to society. The numbers show a dramatic increase in the use of this preventive measure, with just three detentions in 2022, rising sharply to 51 in 2023, 12 in 2024, and 76 in 2025. This preventive action has proven crucial in breaking the cycle of repeat offenses by known drug traffickers.

“Prevention through awareness is our strongest weapon,” stated Dr. Misra, highlighting the state’s comprehensive outreach programs that complement enforcement efforts. Haryana has conducted an impressive 18,540 anti-drug awareness programmes across the state, reaching 28.46 lakh participants from all walks of life. These programmes have been strategically designed to target schools, colleges, workplaces, and community centers to maximize impact.

Chandigarh, January 10. Haryana’s decisive crackdown on organized crime and extortion rackets is now yielding strong, visible results. Compared to 2024, the state recorded a remarkable 40% reduction in extortion-related incidents in 2025. Not only this, but police teams successfully foiled nine major targeted-murder conspiracies, preventing large-scale criminal violence and restoring public confidence.

High-Level Review at Police Headquarters

These developments were shared during a high-level review meeting chaired by Director General of Police Ajay Singhal at the Police Headquarters. Opening the session, DGP Singhal highlighted the growing threats posed by gangsters and their overseas handlers, making it clear that no individual spreading fear or intimidation in the state will be spared.

Zero Tolerance for Terror-Like Activities

Emphasizing an uncompromising approach, DGP Singhal stated that individuals who create an atmosphere of fear among citizens will be treated on par with terrorists and dealt with under the harshest provisions of law. He stressed that the only effective way to dismantle organized crime is to examine the entire structure of these gangs and strike at the core sources of their power.

STF Presentation Highlights International Links

During the meeting, IG STF Satish Balan delivered a detailed presentation outlining the operational architecture and technological mechanisms used by organized criminal groups. He revealed that several gangsters operate from foreign locations, managing their network through social media platforms, encrypted applications and internet-based calling systems. Using virtual numbers and fake online identities, these criminals issue instructions, coordinate operations and even attempt recruitment from abroad.

Close Surveillance on Criminals Operating From Overseas

IG Balan informed attendees that STF is maintaining continuous surveillance on such individuals and is working in close coordination with international agencies to facilitate their deportation. DGP Singhal stressed the need to strengthen this coordination further, noting that no country wants to shelter criminals, and cooperation at the global level is essential.

Rising Influence of Gangsters on Youth a Serious Concern

The meeting also raised concern over the growing trend of young people being influenced by gangsters through rapidly expanding social media channels. Criminals lure impressionable youth into performing minor tasks and gradually push them into serious offences, while gang leaders remain protected in remote or foreign locations.

Focus on Prevention and Public Awareness

To counter this trend, officials recommended expanding awareness and counselling programs among youth alongside ongoing technical surveillance. They also emphasized the need to map specific regions where criminal influence is rising, enabling targeted prevention measures at the grassroots level.

Directive to Strike at the Root of Organized Crime

The meeting concluded with a strong directive from DGP Singhal to intensify and sustain the campaign against organized crime. He stated that this fight cannot end with arrests alone—it must continue until the entire ecosystem of organized crime, including its financial foundation, is dismantled completely.

Chandigarh/Narnaul.
January 10, 2026

The Congress party has adopted an aggressive stance against the Central Government’s attempts to alter the original structure of MNREGA. Under the “Save MNREGA Campaign,” the party has begun organizing press conferences across the state as part of a well-planned strategy. As part of this campaign, press conferences were held simultaneously at all district headquarters, including Narnaul, under the leadership of State Congress President Rao Narendra Singh.
Addressing the press conference, Rao Narendra Singh said that MNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act), implemented by the UPA government in 2005, is a rights-based law that provides every rural household with a legal right to demand employment. He said that for the past 20 years, MNREGA has remained the lifeline of rural India.
Rao Narendra Singh stated that during the difficult period of the COVID pandemic, MNREGA provided employment to 4.6 crore families. The scheme functions as the backbone of rural livelihood security. Every year, 5 to 6 crore families receive employment under MNREGA, which helps reduce migration from rural areas to cities. He added that women’s participation accounts for nearly 60 percent of the total person-days generated under MNREGA.
The State President said that the UPA government ensured that even the last person in society had the right to demand work. Any unemployed person in rural areas could demand work from the government without any qualification, and employment had to be provided within 15 days.
He alleged that the Central Government is now preparing to scrap MNREGA and replace it with the (GRAM G) – Viksit Bharat Rozgar Aajeevika Guarantee Mission Bill, which abolishes the legal guarantee of work, weakens village communities and panchayats, and gives the Central Government the authority to decide in which states the scheme will be implemented and in which it will not.
Rao Narendra Singh said that earlier, nearly 90 percent of MNREGA expenditure was borne by the Central Government, with only 10 percent borne by state governments. Now, however, up to 40 percent of the burden is being shifted to the states. State governments are already under heavy debt, and in such a situation, they will be unable to make payments, leading to the gradual shutdown of MNREGA.
He warned that this would result in a sharp increase in rural unemployment, exploitation of families without minimum wages, increased migration to cities, and the erosion of powers and rights of gram panchayats.
During the press conference, District President Satbir Yadav said that this is a well-planned conspiracy by the BJP government against MNREGA. He termed it the daylight murder of MNREGA, a robbery of the rights of crores of workers, and a direct attack on the livelihood of the working class. He said the right of the poor to demand work is being snatched away. He added that over 90 percent of MNREGA beneficiaries come from Dalit and backward classes, and this is a conspiracy to deprive them of social justice.
State Youth Congress President Nishit Kataria said that under the MNREGA scheme introduced by the Congress government, every family was guaranteed a minimum of 100 days of work by law. Now, beneficiaries will be left without any legal guarantee, and work will be available only in villages selected by the Central Government.
District Women Congress President Dr. Raj Sunesh said that MNREGA legally guaranteed minimum wages, but after the changes made by the Modi government, work will not be available during crop-harvesting seasons and wages will be fixed arbitrarily by the government.
Calling the situation extremely shameful, Rao Narendra Singh said that gram panchayats are now being sidelined. Earlier, development work in villages was carried out through gram panchayats with the support of MNREGA mates and employment assistants. Now, the government will decide who works where and on what, and workers will not even receive assistance from mates or employment assistants.
He asserted that the Congress party will continue its struggle—from the streets to Parliament—to protect MNREGA and the rights of rural workers.
Those present on the occasion included Mahender Ratan, Manoj Patikara, Youth Block President Ravindra Mandi, Ram Singh Joya, Tota Ram Kohli, Advocate Kuldeep Bhardgarh, OBC President Vikram Awana, former judge Rakesh Yadav, Professor Bhup Singh, Seva Dal President Ajit Yadav, Avinash Mandi, Shyam Sunder Soni, Chairman Dalip Singh, Professor Rajbir, Shakti Mandhana, Rewari Youth President Raj Prakash, and several other Congress workers.

Chandigarh, January 8 – In a significant update to streamline recruitment for top administrative posts, the Haryana Government has released a comprehensive revision of the syllabi for the Haryana Civil Service (Executive Branch) and Allied Services examinations through an Extraordinary Gazette notification. A notification in this regard has been issued by Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi.

For the Preliminary Examination, candidates will face two objective papers totaling 400 marks. Paper I on General Studies delves into general science, drawing from everyday observations expected of an educated individual; current national and international events; broad aspects of Indian history, including the National Movement’s resurgence and independence; Indian and world geography with focus on physical, social, and economic features, agriculture, and resources; Indian polity, economy, culture, and mental ability through reasoning. Haryana-specific elements like its economy, people, social institutions, culture, and language are integrated throughout. Paper II, the Civil Services Aptitude Test, tests comprehension, interpersonal and communication skills, logical reasoning, decision-making, problem-solving, general mental ability, basic numeracy (Class X level), and data interpretation from charts, graphs, tables, and sufficiency questions.

The Main Written Examination introduces a more robust structure with six descriptive papers, each of three hours’ duration and 100 marks, totaling 600 marks—a key change eliminating optional subjects and introducing four General Studies papers, as confirmed in recent HPSC updates. Paper I (English and Essay) evaluates reading serious prose, precise expression through precis writing, passage comprehension, usage, vocabulary, grammar, composition, and an essay on a chosen topic stressing orderly ideas and conciseness. Paper II (Hindi and Hindi Essay in Devnagri script) covers English-to-Hindi translation, letter/precis writing, prose/poetry explanations, idioms, corrections, composition, and a topic-based essay.

General Studies-I explores Indian art forms, literature, and architecture from ancient to modern times; modern Indian history from the 18th century, freedom struggle stages and contributors; post-independence consolidation; world history including industrial revolution, wars, colonization, and philosophies like communism and socialism; Indian society’s diversity, women’s roles, population, poverty, urbanization, globalization effects, social empowerment, communalism, regionalism, secularism; world physical geography, resource distribution, industry locations, geophysical phenomena like earthquakes and cyclones, and critical changes in geography, flora, fauna, with Haryana linkages.

General Studies-II covers the Indian Constitution’s evolution, features, amendments, federal structure challenges, devolution to local levels, separation of powers, dispute mechanisms, comparisons with other nations; Parliament and legislatures’ functioning; executive and judiciary structures, pressure groups; Representation of People’s Act; constitutional bodies; statutory/regulatory institutions; development policies, NGOs, SHGs; welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, health, education, poverty, hunger; governance aspects like e-governance, transparency, civil services’ role, India-neighborhood relations, international groupings, diaspora, global institutions, and Haryana issues.

General Studies-III addresses Indian economy planning, resource mobilization, growth, employment, inclusive growth, budgeting; agriculture including crops, irrigation, subsidies, MSP, PDS, food security, animal rearing, food processing; land reforms; liberalization effects, industrial policy; infrastructure like energy, ports, transport; science-technology applications, IT, space, biotech, IPR; environment conservation, disasters; extremism linkages, internal security challenges from cyber, media, organized crime, border issues, security forces, with Haryana relevance.

Finally, General Studies-IV on Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude uses case studies to probe attitudes towards public life probity, covering ethics essence in actions, human values from leaders, attitude influences, foundational civil service values like integrity and empathy, emotional intelligence, moral thinkers; public service ethics, dilemmas, accountability; governance probity including RTI, codes, citizen charters and corruption challenges.

Chandigarh, January 8-  Haryana Chief Minister,  Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that India has witnessed a decisive and positive transformation over the past eleven years, driven by transparent governance, citizen-centric policies, and effective implementation of welfare initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi. He said that the most significant outcome of this period has been the restoration of public trust, with citizens increasingly feeling that the government truly belongs to them. This sense of ownership and confidence among the people, he emphasized, represents the true and enduring meaning of good governance.

The Chief Minister said this while addressing a programme organised in Panchkula on Wednesday, where he underlined that public expectations have evolved significantly. Citizens now demand accountability, efficiency, and long-term solutions that improve the quality of life. This shift, he said, marks a mature democratic transition towards performance-driven governance.

On the occasion, he launched the National Education Evaluation and Validation (NEEV) Portal, designed to strengthen the implementation of the National Education Policy through continuous evaluation and data-based monitoring.

Meanwhile, in the presence of the Chief Minister, Memoranda of Understanding were also signed under the ‘Gyan Setu’ initiative between the Golden Jubilee Haryana Institute for Fiscal Management and various universities to promote academic collaboration, research integration, and institutional capacity building.

*National Education Policy Anchored in Skills, Innovation, and Self-Reliance*

The Chief Minister said that the initiatives unveiled mark a defining moment in Haryana’s education reforms. The objective is to build an education ecosystem that goes beyond conventional degrees and focuses on skills, innovation, and employability. Referring to the Vision Document–2047, launched in alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India by 2047, he said Haryana is positioning education as a central pillar of long-term development.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini further said the National Education Policy reflects a forward-looking framework that integrates knowledge with practical skills, enabling youth to become self-reliant and economically productive. The MoUs signed under the Gyan Setu initiative will ensure that academic research and institutional expertise are aligned with governance priorities and societal needs, he said.

*Historic Budgetary Support to Strengthen Research Culture*

Highlighting a major policy milestone, the Chief Minister said that the state budget has provided Rs. 20 crore for research for the first time, signalling the government’s commitment to strengthening research and innovation across higher education institutions. He emphasized that universities should focus on problem-driven research that addresses pressing challenges such as waterlogging, environmental sustainability, and urban infrastructure, thereby contributing directly to policy formulation and development planning.

*Welfare-Oriented Governance Has Improved Quality of Life*

The Chief Minister stated that since 2014, governance in India has shifted towards inclusive and outcome-oriented welfare delivery. Initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat–Chirayu, Har Ghar Nal Se Jal, Mhara Gaon–Jagmag Gaon, and the Ujjwala Yojana have expanded access to healthcare, drinking water, electricity, and clean cooking fuel. These programmes, he said, have reduced everyday hardships and significantly enhanced the dignity and well-being of citizens, he said.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini shared that India’s economic progress reflects the success of sustained reforms, with the country emerging as the world’s fourth-largest economy and moving steadily towards becoming the third-largest. This economic growth, he said, must be reinforced through strong institutions, skilled human capital, and innovation-led development.

*AI-Enabled Pre-Budget Feedback Portal Encourages Citizen Participation*

The Chief Minister informed that an AI-based pre-budget feedback portal has recently been launched to enable citizens, students, and stakeholders to share suggestions in the budget formulation process. He emphasized that the budget represents collective aspirations and that greater public participation will result in more inclusive and effective policy decisions.

*Focused Push on Crop Diversification and Modern Horticulture*

Addressing agricultural reforms, the Chief Minister said the government is actively encouraging farmers to adopt crop diversification and modern horticulture practices to enhance income while protecting environmental health. Measures include promotion of natural farming, reduced chemical usage, establishment of Centres of Excellence, and development of export-oriented infrastructure. He highlighted the ultra-modern horticulture market being developed at Ganaur as a key initiative to provide farmers with better market access and improved price realization.

*Universities Called Upon to Align Education with Industry Needs*

During a focused interaction with Vice-Chancellors, the Chief Minister urged universities to design skill-based training programmes aligned with industry requirements. He suggested the development of a dedicated digital platform where industries can post their workforce needs, enabling institutions to tailor academic and training modules and improve employment outcomes for graduates.

*Research and Innovation Central to Haryana Vision–2047*

Earlier, Haryana Chief Secretary, Sh. Anurag Rastogi emphasized that universities must play a pivotal role in realizing the objectives of Haryana Vision Document–2047, particularly in transitioning the state towards a robust manufacturing and services economy. He highlighted the creation of the Haryana State Research Fund with an allocation of Rs. 20 crore to support research and innovation.

Additional Chief Secretary, Education Department,  Sh. Vineet Garg stressed the importance of introducing new-age courses in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors, aligned with industry demand. He also underlined the importance of resource sharing among institutions and noted that government colleges established at regular intervals are being developed in accordance with NEP-2020 standards.

OSD to Chief Minister and Director General, Haryana Institute for Fiscal Management, Dr. Raj Nehru, said the NEEV Portal has been developed to ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of NEP-2020 implementation. The portal will facilitate phased data submission by schools, colleges, and universities, enabling evidence-based planning and informed policy decisions, he said.

Chandigarh, January 8- Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 provides a clear roadmap to align India’s education system with the demands of the 21st century. However, the real success of any policy depends on its timely and effective implementation. Thus, to bridge the gap between policy intent and execution on the ground, the state government has developed the NEEV Portal, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, while interacting with mediapersons after an MoU exchange programme held in Panchkula on Thursday.

He described the NEEV Portal as an intelligent, data-driven decision support system that links policy formulation with institutional implementation. The portal enables objective, continuous and technology-enabled assessment of various provisions of NEP 2020.

The Chief Minister said that the primary objective of the NEEV Portal is to ensure transparent, impartial and sustained evaluation of NEP 2020 compliance in educational institutions. Through real-time data, performance indicators and predictive analytics, the portal continuously monitors the education ecosystem, clearly identifying institutions that are performing in line with the policy and those that require improvement, he said.

The Chief Minister said that the portal functions not only as a monitoring mechanism but also as an effective tool for timely corrective action and strategic guidance. He informed that in the first phase, the NEEV Portal is being implemented in universities and will subsequently be extended to colleges and, at a later stage, to schools and other educational institutions. This phased rollout will help ensure uniformity, improved quality standards and greater preparedness for NEP 2020 across the state.

Sh. Nayab Sinmgh Saini further said that the government’s vision is to develop a globally competitive education system by 2047. Through the NEEV Portal, digital tracking of 100 per cent compliance with NEP 2020 across universities, colleges and other educational institutions will be made possible by 2047.

Referring to the MoUs, the Chief Minister said that under the ‘Gyan Setu’ initiative, the Swarna Jayanti Haryana Institute for Fiscal Management has entered into partnerships with around 28 reputed academic institutions. The objective of these collaborations is to connect academic knowledge with real administrative and social challenges, ensuring that research outcomes contribute directly to governance and societal problem-solving, said Sh. Nayab Sinmgh Saini.

He shared that these collaborations will support the impact evaluation of key government schemes, capacity-building programmes, and enhanced internship and field engagement opportunities for students. This will strengthen the policymaking process while also providing young scholars with valuable exposure to real-world administrative functioning.

The Chief Minister said that the NEEV Portal and the ‘Gyan Setu’ initiative, taken together, will play a crucial role in making Haryana’s education system future-ready, inclusive and aligned with global standards. These initiatives will help ensure that education becomes a strong foundation for skills development, innovation, employment generation and overall social progress, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Remarks by former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Gurus are deeply unfortunate

Responding to a question on the remarks made by former Delhi Chief Minister Ms Atishi against the Gurus, the Chief Minister said that the Gurus sacrificed not just their lives but entire generations to uphold religion, humanity and the nation. He said that such a mindset towards the Gurus is deeply unfortunate. Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the teachings of the Gurus continue to inspire society and provide strength and direction to future generations.

Replying to another question, the Chief Minister said that during his tenure as Delhi Chief Minister, Sh Arvind Kejriwal prioritised the opening of liquor vends instead of strengthening the education system. He pointed out that separate liquor shops were opened for women, something that happened only in Delhi across the country.

Answering yet another question, the Chief Minister said that during the Congress regime, jobs were distributed arbitrarily. In contrast, the present government is providing employment purely on merit, without recommendations or monetary influence. He added that nearly two lakh jobs have been provided so far under this transparent system.

Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary, Education Department,  Sh. Vineet  Garg, OSD to Chief Minister and Director General,  Haryana Institute for Fiscal Management, Dr. Raj Nehru, and Media Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Praveen Attrey were present on the occasion.

Chandigarh, January 8

The 18th meeting of the Haryana Enterprise Promotion Board (HEPB) was held on Thursday in Chandigarh under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. The meeting took several decisions to grant special incentive packages and relief to various industrial units with the objective of promoting industrial investment and employment generation in the State.

Special incentive packages for the projects were approved by the HEPB based on the recommendations of the Empowered Executive Committee (EEC), chaired by the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister. Cooperation Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma was also present in the meeting.

During the meeting, a special incentive package of ₹73.15 crore was approved for A.W.L. Agri Business Limited (formerly Adani Wilmar Limited) under the Haryana Enterprise and Employment Policy–2020.

Similarly, a special incentive package of ₹35.47 crore was approved for Hamdard Foods India under the Haryana Enterprise and Employment Policy–2020. This project will promote investment in the food processing sector and generate employment at the local level.

The meeting also approved amendments to the conditions of the special incentive package earlier granted to Enrich Agro Food Products Private Limited under the Enterprise Promotion Policy–2015.

In addition, approval was accorded to provide SGST reimbursement and other admissible relief in incentive subsidy cases related to Canpack India Private Limited. The meeting also granted the special incentive package earlier approved to Aarti Greentech Limited under the Enterprise Promotion Policy–2015.

Further, a special incentive package of approximately ₹749 crore was approved for Uno Minda Limited under the Haryana Enterprise and Employment Policy–2020 for setting up an auto component manufacturing unit in the State with an investment of ₹1,930 crore. This project is associated with large-scale investment and employment generation in the auto and auto components sector.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sh. Rajesh Khullar; Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sh. Arun Kumar Gupta; Commissioner and Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal; Director General, Industries and Commerce Department, Sh. Yash Garg, and other senior officers.

Chandigarh, January 5 – Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has directed officials to ensure that special emphasis is laid on strengthening the state’s healthcare infrastructure in the upcoming general budget. She said that, based on GIS mapping, it must be ensured that no region of the state remains deprived of health institutions and that all citizens receive equitable and quality healthcare services.

The Health Minister was chairing a high-level meeting of officials in Chandigarh today to review budget preparations related to the Ayush and Medical Education Departments. Detailed discussions were held during the meeting on the current status of health services in the state, existing requirements, and future plans.

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, Director General of Ayush Sh. Sanjeev Verma, Mission Director of National Health Mission Haryana Sh. Rippudaman Singh Dhillon, Director of Medical Education and Research Sh. Yashender Singh, Director General of Health Services Dr. Manish Bansal, Dr. Kuldeep Singh, Dr. Virender Yadav, and other senior officials.

On the occasion, Health Minister Arti Singh Rao informed that the state government has accorded in-principle approval to upgrade the Sub-Health Centre located in village Tain of Nuh district into a Primary Health Centre (PHC). Along with this, expenditure of approximately ₹36 lakh has also been approved for the appointment of required staff at this health centre, which will enable people of the area to receive better and timely medical services.

Similarly, approval has been granted for opening a new Primary Health Centre in village Khatodra of Mahendragarh district. This will ensure availability of primary healthcare facilities closer to the people of the surrounding rural areas.

The Health Minister directed officials to ensure advance budgetary provisions for starting new health services wherever required in the state. She said that strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in remote and backward areas remains a priority of the government.

She reiterated that the Haryana Government is fully committed to the health of the common people and that every possible step will be taken to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services across the state.

Chandigarh, January 5- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, 2025 represents a fundamental overhaul of rural employment policy in India, ensuring more guaranteed workdays, higher wages, transparent payments and creation of durable assets, while putting an end to the corruption and inefficiencies that plagued the earlier MGNREGA framework.

Addressing a press conference here today, the Chief Minister said the Viksit Bharat–G-RAM-G Act is designed to support genuine labourers who were betrayed under previous governments. He said, this law ensures real-time monitoring, transparent wage payments and higher guaranteed employment. Rural workers will now contribute to building a truly developed India, rather than enriching corrupt contractors, officials or politicians.

Cabinet Ministers, Dr. Arvind Sharma, Sh. Ranbir Gangwa, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, Chief Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Rajesh Khullar and Media Secretary to Chief minister, Sh. Praveen Attrey also remained present on this occasion.

He said that the new law, introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, replaces an outdated structure that no longer reflects the realities of India’s transformed rural economy. He said the legislation is directly linked to the lives and livelihoods of crores of rural labourers, farmers and working families across the country.

Old frameworks must evolve with changing times, says CM

The Chief Minister said that MGNREGA, launched nearly two decades ago, was conceived in a different economic and social context. Like all public welfare schemes, it required reform as circumstances changed. However, successive governments failed to address its structural weaknesses.

He said that over the past 20 years, India’s rural economy has undergone a fundamental shift. Rural poverty, which stood at over 25 percent in 2011–12, has now declined to below 5 percent. At the same time, the last decade has witnessed unprecedented expansion in digital connectivity, banking access, Aadhaar coverage, Direct Benefit Transfer systems and infrastructure development. Continuing with a flawed and outdated employment structure without reform was neither in the interest of labourers nor of the nation, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Guaranteed employment increased to 125 days, boosting incomes nationwide, says CM

The Chief Minister said that under the new law, the employment guarantee has been increased from 100 to 125 days, significantly enhancing assured income for rural workers. He said this would lead to an average annual income increase of over Rs. 7,000 for an unskilled rural worker across India. In Haryana, where wage rates are the highest in the country, each worker would earn at least Rs. 10,000 more annually, he said.

Record Rs. 1.51 lakh crore allocation ensures financial backing- CM

The Chief Minister said the Centre has allocated Rs. 1.51 lakh crore for the scheme this year, surpassing last year’s record allocation of Rs. 88,000 crore. He said the Central Government’s share alone exceeds Rs.95,000 crore, with a commitment to further increase funding in the coming years to strengthen rural employment security.

The Chief Minister said that in the current year, over 52 percent Scheduled Caste workers and more than 65 percent women workers received employment in Haryana under the scheme.He said that unlike earlier practices, this work was actually performed by workers, rather than being executed through machines while labourers remained unemployed.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the nature of permissible works has been redefined to ensure long-term benefits. Employment will now be generated in water security, rural infrastructure, livelihood resources and climate-resilient asset creation. He added that Gram Panchayat plans have been aligned with the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan, ensuring that village-level works contribute directly to national development goals.

The Chief Minister said the scheme includes a 60-day pause during peak agricultural seasons, allowing labourers to support farming activities and earn higher market wages, while farmers receive timely labour support. He said that mandatory weekly wage payments, with a maximum delay of 15 days, would ensure timely income, financial independence and empowerment for rural workers.

Technology-driven safeguards eliminate fraud and exploitation- CM

The Chief Minister said the new law incorporates biometric authentication, direct digital wage transfers, geo-tagging of assets and satellite monitoring through ISRO’s Bhuvan portal. He said weekly public disclosures and a multi-level grievance redressal system with a seven-day resolution timeline would ensure accountability and transparency. He said that works have been clearly categorised into priority sectors to prevent creation of fake projects for financial manipulation.

Chandigarh: Strongly opposing the BJP government’s move to change the original framework of MGNREGA, the Congress party registered strong objections and appeared highly aggressive in protest. In this context, the Congress launched the nationwide “Save MGNREGA Struggle” campaign from the Chandigarh-based headquarters of the Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee.
Addressing a press conference on the occasion, Haryana in-charge B. K. Hariprasad said that the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), implemented in 2005 by the UPA government, is a historic law that guarantees every rural household a legal right to at least 100 days of employment per year.

He said that this law is not only a means of providing employment, but also a lifeline for the poor and a strong pillar of the rural economy. He added that, as part of the protest and in accordance with the directions of the party high command, agitations would be carried out at every level.
Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee President Rao Narendra Singh, in his address, said that unfortunately the present government has been making continuous attempts over the past 5–6 years to weaken MGNREGA. To ensure rural employment and protect the core objective of MGNREGA, the Congress party has launched the “Save MGNREGA Campaign” at the national level. Through this campaign, the public will be made aware of their rights.
He further stated that MGNREGA is not just a source of employment, but also a powerful tool to strengthen the rural economy and improve the living standards of the poor and deprived sections. He informed that under the “Save MGNREGA Struggle,” preparatory meetings will be held at the PCC level, district-level press conferences will be organized, one-day fasts and symbolic protests will be conducted, people will be mobilized at the panchayat level, and peaceful sit-ins will be held at the ward level.

This will be followed by district-level MGNREGA protection protests, a state-level gherao of the Vidhan Sabha, and regional rallies to raise awareness. He said that through this campaign, the Congress will strive to reach every person affected by attempts to change the structure of MGNREGA.
Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda said that due to cuts in funding, delays in wage payments, reduction in the number of workdays, and arbitrary restrictions, the poor, Dalits, tribals, women, and other marginalized sections have been the worst affected. According to various government reports, more than 60 percent of MGNREGA wage payments are delayed. He warned that severe consequences would emerge in the coming times.
Senior Congress leader Randeep Surjewala, in his statement, said that the BJP government is constantly harassing the common people under one pretext or another. By changing the original structure of MGNREGA, these corrupt elements are attempting to snatch food from the mouths of rural people, the poor, the deprived, women, and the needy. He said that the Congress party had carefully designed the MGNREGA scheme to strengthen the rural economy and provide employment to women close to their homes, so that they would not have to wander in search of work. However, the corrupt BJP government cannot tolerate the poor earning even a basic livelihood. He asserted that the Congress would never allow the BJP government’s intentions to succeed and is prepared to launch even the biggest movements to protect MGNREGA.
On this occasion, MP Deepender Singh Hooda said that dismantling the MGNREGA scheme is a living example of the BJP’s authoritarianism. He said that the issue is not merely about changing the name, but about altering the structure of the scheme to snatch the rights and entitlements of the needy—an attempt that will fail. The Congress party will never allow the BJP’s effort to succeed.
Through the media, leaders appealed to everyone to actively participate in this campaign in their respective areas and carry forward the struggle to secure the rightful entitlements of the poor through MGNREGA. During the programme, a detailed discussion was also held regarding the upcoming municipal corporation elections in three districts of Haryana.

Speaking on this issue, the Pradesh Congress President said that the Congress has geared up for the municipal elections and will approach the people with its constructive policies, expressing full confidence that the Congress will emerge victorious in these local body elections.
During the press conference, several senior leaders, MPs, MLAs, office bearers, and party workers were present, including MP and Congress Working Committee member Deepender Singh Hooda; former Haryana PCC presidents Chaudhary Dharampal Singh Malik and Chaudhary Uday Bhan; Chaudhary Ram Kishan Gurjar; Jitendra Kumar Bhardwaj; Suresh Gupta; MP Varun Chaudhary; Satpal Brahmachari; Jaiprakash; MLAs Chaudhary Nirmal Singh, Bharat Bhushan Batra, Chaudhary Aftab Ahmed, Parmvir Singh, Mohammad Ijrail, Ashok Arora, Akram Khan, Chandermohan, Kuldeep Vats; MLA Shailja Chaudhary; Pooja Chaudhary; Geeta Bhukkal; Shakuntla Khatak; Sardar Jarnail Singh; Chandraprakash; Induraj Narwal; Balwan Singh Daulatpuria; Balwan Dangi; Jassi Petwar; Devender Hans; Raghubir Singh Tewatia; Naresh Selwal; Ram Karan Kala; Rohit Chaudhary; Chairman, Ex-Servicemen Department, AICC; Haryana Mahila Congress President Sudha Bhardwaj; Media In-charge Sanjeev Bhardwaj; Dr. Poonam Chauhan; President, Haryana Congress Seva Dal, Manoj Bagri; Chairman, SC Department, Haryana Congress, Fom Lal; Chairman, Rajiv Gandhi Panchayati Raj Organisation, Haryana, along with all Congress office bearers and workers.